Caution, flammable liquids!

Flash fires of gasoline, acetone, benzene, toluene, some alcohols, and ethers periodically become the cause of fires, resulting in people being hospitalized, according to rescuer reports. The very name "flammable liquids" (FL) speaks for itself, so their use requires special attention.

Regarding what substances can be stored and where, the storage of explosives, flammable and combustible liquids, cylinders with hot gas, and other explosive substances and materials, as well as containers after their use, is not permitted in auxiliary premises of apartment buildings (common areas), and residential premises must be used for their functional purpose.

Be sure to tell children about the dangers of flammable liquids. What a child should know – FL have a very strong and unpleasant odor. Most often, children get hold of FL, which include paints and varnishes, during games at a construction site or in a house or apartment where repairs are being made. Do not forget that in the context of children's games, FL also include hairspray, cockroach spray, air freshener, and perfume. It is impossible to remove all dangerous items from life, but parents are obliged to talk about the danger, teach, and show by their own example.

How to extinguish? Flammable liquids should never be extinguished with water. This is because gasoline, kerosene, and similar substances are lighter than water, and when attempting to extinguish them with water, they will float to the surface, not only continuing to burn but also spreading outwards, increasing the fire area.

Since the combustion of gasoline is impossible without access to oxygen, methods that limit air access to the source of ignition can be used for its extinguishment. FL can be extinguished using wet pieces of cloth or dense clothing, a powder extinguisher, or by using sand or soil, by covering the burning surface with them. Sand or soil should be poured starting from the outer edge of the burning liquid along its perimeter, then gradually covering the liquid from the edge towards the center until it is completely covered.

Take care of yourself! And remember: the price of one mistake when using any hazardous substances is a human life.

Inspector of the Department for Supervision of Fire Safety and Prevention of the Miory District Department for Emergency Situations O.M. Girzhda